Bowes Castle was built between 1171 and 1187 on the site of the Roman fort of Lavatris, which can be traced for most of its perimeter. The impressive ruins of Henry II's 12th century keep guard the approach to strategic Stainmore Pass over the Pennines.

 

The castle ruins are supposedly hiding treasure that was the property of the Romans who were garrisoned there. The apparitions of Roman Legionaires have been reported here.